Chapter 406 – Prototype.

“You want to do what-t?”

The next morning, Roland approached Arthur to discuss his plans. The two sat in Arthur’s office, a room filled with various books, strategy boards, and reports. Arthur listened attentively as Roland explained the opportunity presented by Professor Arion at the Xandar’s Institute of Wizardry. However, the moment he revealed that he wished to leave this territory, the noble responded in surprise and was now coughing out tea.

“L-lord Arthur, you shouldn’t talk while drinking!”

Mary was there with them and started patting his back

“Thank you, Mary.”

Arthur managed to say between coughs. He wiped his mouth with a handkerchief, looking at Roland with a mix of surprise and curiosity.

“Now, could you repeat that last part? Leaving the territory?”

“Yes, Lord Arthur. Professor Arion has offered me a chance to visit the Xandar’s Institute of Wizardry to access their extensive archives. It’s an opportunity to enhance my knowledge of runes and magic, and potentially accelerate my research. After recent events, I’ve realized that I’m still inexperienced…”

“Inexperienced with all that knowledge to transform the city?”

“There are a lot of things that I don’t know and the recent events show it…”

“I see… but leaving now…”

Roland observed Arthur, who appeared somewhat perturbed by the situation. He understood that the young lord was likely displeased with his strongest ally leaving his side for an undisclosed period. There was a chance he might never return, as accidents were not uncommon. Without Roland’s support, the runic city could potentially amount to nothing more than a dream.

Their alliance experienced an upswing, courtesy of Roland’s engagement with the Golden Order. The church’s presence had attracted adventurers to the region, viewing it as a lucrative opportunity. The dungeon teemed with undead monsters susceptible to holy mana and items. With the relocation of item production to this area, their wishes seemed nearly fulfilled. It was evolving into a region that could offer everything, still largely unexplored. Numerous treasures remained concealed, and overcoming bosses for the first time promised access to superior items.

“I guess we should be able to manage without you around for a few months… “

“Oh?”

After a moment of contemplation, Arthur provided his response, aligning with Roland’s expectations but not entirely. Roland had anticipated the young noble to be more apprehensive, perhaps even fearful, about releasing a trusted comrade-in-arms. However, it seemed that Arthur’s stance was a lot more altruistic than he anticipated.

“Are you surprised my friend? I think you have done enough to aid my cause already, there isn’t really much that I could ask for at this juncture.”

Arthur looked to the side where a lot of soldiers were gathering, there Sir Gareth and Morien were giving stern speeches to some of the new recruits.

“Those two won’t take too long now… Haha, when you come back, we’ll have a proper battalion of soldiers for you to command!”

Roland’s gaze landed on the two knights who were supposed to be his replacement. He analyzed their current levels and class choices. While they didn’t manage to awaken aura they still had the spirit variants of their classes. With them, they would be able to get more prestigious classes later on, perhaps a Spirit Champion variant just like that one Knight Commander that he encountered.

“Did you notice?”

“Yes, they have some talent.”

Arthur appeared genuinely pleased with his two knights. With them by Arthur’s side, Roland could likely reduce his direct involvement in his knightly duties. Remaining as the Head-Knight seemed inevitable for a while, given his superior level and combat skills compared to others at similar levels. Moreover, capturing undead monsters meant the duo could enhance their combat skills without falling behind during what could otherwise be considered a rapid and unbalanced leveling phase.

“I appreciate your understanding, Lord Arthur. I will do my best to expedite my research and return as soon as possible. But to do that, I’ll have to ask for something…”

“Oh? Go ahead, if it’s within my power.”

The conversation was unfolding smoothly, and Arthur appeared to be in high spirits. This presented the opportune moment to seek assistance, especially since he wanted to avoid spending a week traveling from one small city to another. Typically, he would have to take a carriage to the port, embark on a ship to reach the mainland, and then proceed by train. Such a journey would consume at least a week or more as monster attacks were possible.

“I need more money, and probably a referral letter so I can take an airship from Isgard…”

“…More money and I-Isgard you say…”

“Why are you looking away?”

“For no reason…”

Roland’s eyes narrowed as Arthur averted his gaze upon hearing the mention of needing money for an airship. Travel by such means was a luxury reserved for the wealthy and noble, and the cost was indeed substantial. Roland was aware of his own financial constraints, with the need to repair his home and the anticipated expenses for remaking his armor. However, as the Head-Knight, he earned a nice sum each month. If he could secure a few months’ payment in advance, it should adequately cover the expenses for his journey.

“With a referral letter I’ll be able to lower the price even further, your family owns the city, doesn’t it?”

Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.